A lot of low income families have a need for cell phones. Most American families have cell phones and they can be particularly useful. However, the high cost of cell phone plans can be prohibitively expensive for many low income families.

Not anyone can get low income cell phones. You have to meet the criteria for low income before you can get the cell phones. If you are already getting subsidized rent or food stamps then you can probably apply for low income cell phones too.

The federal government subsidizes cell phone for the purpose of letting low income families get phones where they can call for emergency purposes. You should not use these phones unless it is for important matters.

Currently there are not that many providers of low income cell phones. The providers have to get approval from the state that they want to operate in so not all states have low income cell phones. You have to check your state.

Low income cell phones are limited in their minutes. Each month you are given about 60 minutes of free talk time. If you want to use more than that you can buy prepaid minutes.

You also have to meet the eligibility for low income cell phones every year when you renew your contract. If you lose eligibility, then you would become a regular user and be expected to pay for usage.

Low income cell phones are meant to be used for emergency purposes. For example, people may need to call police or the fire department. Sometimes they may need to get into touch with family members. Among other uses are for finding jobs.

Non-essential use of the cell phone should be limited so that you have minutes when you really need them during an emergency. Some providers allow the minutes to be rolled over each month so that you can accumulate it.

Max Liu-Bei enjoys researching ways to save money. If you would like more information regarding low income cell phone, please visit his website.